An NHS doctor has recommended a simple 6p sweet for those struggling with constipation and any accompanying bloating. Constipation leads to infrequent bowel movements, straining during toilet visits, and can result in an unpleasant sensation of bloating and nausea over time.
Various factors might cause this condition, including dietary choices, insufficient physical activity, certain medications, or lack of hydration. While making lifestyle changes is typically advised to alleviate such digestive issues, sometimes immediate relief is necessary.
To assist in expediting the process, the expert suggests a typical piece of confectionery. Doctor Karan Rajan, known as Dr Raj online, pointed out that chewing gum could offer a remedy for constipation. In a TikTok video, he responded to another content creator who mentioned that confectionery had helped her bowel movement post-Caesarean section.
He elaborated: “If you’ve had any abdominal or gynaecological surgery, or you’re just disgustingly constipated, then chewing gum could help you in your quest to churn out fresh colon sausage. Sometimes after surgery or if you’ve been in hospital for a really long time your intestines go on strike, leaving you bloated and constipated.”
Chewing gum could be the simple solution to getting your digestive system back on track, according to Dr Raj, who explains that it “tricks your body into thinking it’s eating.”
He explained the process, saying, “It triggers the gastrocolic reflex where a bunch of gut hormones are released and the vagus nerve is stimulated. This results in more stomach and intestinal contractions and more movements.”
Dr Raj also highlighted the benefits of opting for sugar-free gum, stating: “For an even better outcome try sugar-free gum. This usually contains a common artificial sweetener like sorbitol, which works as an osmotic laxative. It draws water into the large intestine and increases gut motility.”
Sugar-free gum can be found at Tesco, where a pack of 50 pieces is priced at £3, amounting to just 6p per piece.
Additionally, Dr Raj suggested trying black coffee. He said: “Not only does the combination of polyphenols, fibre, and caffeine have a prokinetic effect and shorten intestinal transit time, just the smell of a strong brew activates that cephalo vagal reflex. This glitch means just the sight or smell of food causes the release of digestive juices and hormones.”
For those concerned about their digestive health, the NHS advises consulting your GP if you:
- Are constipated and feel tired all the time
- Are regularly constipated
- Notice sudden changes in the how you poo (your bowel habits)
- Are constipated and it’s not getting better with treatment
- Have blood in your poo
- Have tummy pain
- Are taking medicine that’s causing constipation – such as opioid painkillers
- Have lost weight without trying
- Are regularly bloated
The health body warns: “Speak to the GP before you stop taking any prescribed medicine.”